Remember when we used to whip out our most colorful markers and write down literally every single thing we wanted to do ever? It could’ve been anything from, “go stargazing,” to “wear a wig to the mall,” for all we cared, and those were good times. That got us thinking.. why did we ever stop making bucket lists?
We decided to make a summer bucket list that’s full of must-dos within the Columbus area. If your markers have run out of ink, or you just don’t feel like doing the research – that’s what we’re here for.
Read on, bucket-listers.
Have a hoot with Pedal Wagon Columbus
848 N Pearl St, Columbus, OH 43215 / more info
Whether it’s for a bachelorette party, a birthday, or just for the heck of it – come take a 2 hour cruise through the streets of Columbus with Pedal Wagon Columbus. You’ll have the opportunity to choose from a number of different cruises that are designed to give you and your group memorable time. For obvious reasons, we suggest going on the “Brewery Cruise,” which allows you to stop in at 2 to 3 breweries in the Short North! Parties up to 15 are welcome. Mark your calendars, people.
Watch the sunset on the Scioto Mile
233 S Civic Center Dr, Columbus, OH 43215 / more info
Hear us out.. a little sunset picnic date (with yourself or someone special) is always a crowd pleaser. Here’s why: you get to eat any food you want while the sky puts on a show.. for free. It’s low-maintenance, yet it sort of weirdly feels elaborate? Anyways. The Scioto Mile is a gorgeous spot to get a double-whammy of a sunset since the reflection on the water gives it some extra oomph.
Stargazing at Sharon Woods Metro Park
6911 Cleveland Ave, Westerville, OH 43081 / more info
When the evenings are warm and the breeze hits just right, something magical happens. Seize the moment and head to Sharon Woods Metro Park for a twinkly view of the never-ending sky. Oh, bring s’mores since there’s fire pits on a first come, first serve basis. Nothing says summer like a melty, chocolatey s’more and a view of the stars.
Swim through Zoombezi Bay
4850 Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065 / more info
Waterpark season doesn’t last long here in Ohio which is why it is absolutely imperative that you find SOME way to get in the water this summer. Sorry, we don’t mean to be demanding. We think Zoombezi Bay is the perfect combination of fun and relaxation. You can slide down the 55-foot Cyclone, or float down the adults only Cocktail Creek; depending on your mood that day.
Rent Bikes with Paradise Garage
921 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201 / more info
Do some sight-seeing and rent a bike! There’s all kinds of bike trails to explore in the Columbus area, so strap on your helmets and get ready to pedal with Paradise Garage.
Go to the top of the James A. Rhodes State Office Tower
30 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215 / more info
If you have a fear of heights, this may not be something you’ll want to put at the top of your summer bucket list. Maybe put it at the very bottom, or scrap the idea entirely and pretend there’s no such thing as heights. What is a height? We don’t know.
However, if you like the idea of seeing a stellar view of Columbus from the 40th floor of the Rhodes State Office Tower – add this to the list, pronto.
Hike to Hayden Falls Nature Preserve
4326 Hayden Run Rd, Dublin, OH 43017 / more info
There’s something to see around every corner, and in this case – it’s a waterfall. It’s a short hike to Hayden Falls and the reward is great. Enjoy the serene sound of pounding water and observe the scenic view.
Go River Floating with Pea Ohana
126 Muskingum Ave Suite P, Zanesville OH 43701 / more info
This is definitely a top-of-the-lister for us, and we think you’ll agree. Hop into a tube, zip up your life vests, and float down Licking River with Pea Ohana. Be prepared to pass through some rapids and float under the Y-Bridge in Downtown Zanesville. Have a pint at the craft brewery above the boathouse, and check this off your list.
See a concert at Nationwide Arena
200 W Nationwide Blvd, Columbus, OH 43215 / more info
That feeling you get when you’re at a concert is like no other, which is why this is a must for your summer bucket list. The Nationwide Arena houses up to 20,000 people, and you should be one of them.
Did we miss one? Did one of these places close? Send us a note!